Early-season trends in the 2026-27 NHL campaign are beginning to take shape, offering a clearer picture of how teams are performing as the season progresses. With sufficient games now in the books, initial expectations and early surprises are emerging, revealing which squads are exceeding forecasts and which may be struggling to meet them. Analysts and fans alike have weighed in on the shifting dynamics, as some teams defy predictions while others face early challenges. The evolving landscape suggests a season full of unexpected twists and early contenders.

We’ve had enough of a sample size to get a good grasp on what each team is so far through the 2026-27 NHL season. There was a lot of talk…